Barcelona romp to Super Cup victory

Espanyol's Eduardo Costa, left, and Barcelona's Liliam Thuram compete for the ball during the Supercup match in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday.

PHOTO: EPA

Barcelona picked up another piece of silverware on Sunday when they beat city rivals Espanyol 3-0 for a 4-0 aggregate triumph in the Spanish Super Cup.

The European champions had the trophy virtually wrapped up after just three minutes at the Nou Camp when Xavi Hernandez scored the first from a Ronaldinho pass.

Portuguese star Deco extended the lead in the 12th minute and the midfielder added his second of the night on the hour.

With the game safe, Barca coach Frank Rikjaard introduced new signings Lilian Thuram in defense and striker Eidur Gudjohnsen who replaced Samuel Eto'o at halftime.

Also looking impressive for Barca was Lionel Messi who linked well with Ronaldinho.

The build-up to the game had been overshadowed by Espanyol claims that Barca's Xavi Hernandez and Carlos Puyol should not have played in the first leg after withdrawing from the Spanish squad for last week's friendly against Iceland.

However, their appeal to the Spanish football federation was rejected.